The name translates to "traveler." Legend says that when these French fur trappers first looked down from the Blue Mountains upon the fair fertile valley, they exclaimed, "voila, voila!" (behold, behold!) and were transfixed. This Walla Walla Valley Syrah blend features fruit from some of the most sought-after vineyards in the valley: Stone Valley and Dwelley Vineyards. Only 275 cases produced.
The 2019 Frontière Syrah comes from The Funk Estate Vineyard, planted in 2007 by Richard and Anita Funk. The vineyard site, located near the apex of the alluvial fan with an elevation of 965 feet, is considered the warmer area of The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. The vines at this site are trained using a quadrilateral system which helps to control the light exposure and air flow, resulting in lighter cluster weights and smaller berries. Only 100 cases produced.
This single vineyard designate from Lefore Vineyard exudes the character of the cobblestone rocks with a full spectrum of aromas and dense flavors including bramble fruit, plum, black cherry, game, brine, minerality, caramel and baking spices. The palate gives way to a full-bodied, richly concentrated palate, silky texture, refined tannins, fresh acidity and an overall impression of balance. This wine is drinkable upon release, but will gracefully age for the next 10 - 15 years.
Overflowing with Rocks character, the wine opens with notes of plum and blackberry but quickly moves away from the pure fruit expression unfolding aromas of smoke, black pepper, savory herbs, game, charcoal and minerality that contribute to its distinct reflection of the appellation. The mouthfeel is rich, silky and seamless with concentration, firm gravely tannins, balancing acidity that glide to a smooth finish.
